Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Private Equity: Fund Formation - USA
What the Team is Known For
Kirkland & Ellis boasts an impressively deep group of private funds specialists noted for its handling of a large volume of fundraisings for prominent high end and mid-market sponsors. A global footprint ensures that it is well equipped to take on sophisticated matters involving buyout funds and real estate funds. Additional expertise in handling significant secondary transactions. Noted for its experience of working with a wide array of investors as part of a global platform.
Strengths
"Kirkland has a deep bench with true expertise."
"The team is very responsive and the quality of their work is excellent."
"The firm has strong resources to support broad array of needs and outstanding knowledge."
Work Highlights
Kirkland provided counsel to JPMorgan Chase on the formation of its JPMorgan Infrastructure Investments Fund, a $30+ billion utility fund.
Notable practitioners
John O'Neil is admired for his command of fund formation, including substantial buyout and real estate funds.
Andrew Wright regularly works with major sponsors on forming growth equity and buyout funds. He has particular experience related to funds focused on the energy and healthcare sectors.
"He has a deep understanding of the market."
"Andrew is incredibly responsive and commercial."
Erica Berthou represents significant asset management firms on large fund raises, including real estate, energy and credit funds.
"She's a terrific lawyer."
"Erica has a lot of experience as a heavyweight in the industry."
Daniel Lavon-Krein is commended for his strong practice encompassing fund formation and sales of minority stakes in fund managers.
"Daniel's insight is invaluable to us."
Kelly Ryan specializes in advising sponsors on real estate and infrastructure fund launches.
"Kelly is one of the most experienced funds attorneys in the industry."
Sean Hill has notable strength in forming funds including credit funds and other private equity vehicles. He has further experience of advising sponsor-side clients on secondary transactions in their funds.
"He is a wonderful lawyer."
Chris Kallos handles the establishment of significant buyout and venture capital funds.
Jordan Murray is recognized for his work establishing private equity funds and handling minority stake transactions. He is routinely called upon by significant sponsors to provide counsel.
Matthew Howard has notable experience of advising sponsor-side clients on significant fund launches.
Jeffrey Kaplan regularly advises emerging managers on raising buyout and growth equity funds.
"Jeffrey's an excellent thought partner."
Justin Solomon is highly adept at providing counsel on the formation of funds to high profile private equity firms.
Nicole Washington is praised for her strong practice advising on fund formation matters, including early-stage fundraises.
"Nicole is a great practitioner."
Robert Blaustein is based in New York and has a widely respected practice advising asset managers on the formation of private equity funds. He has further experience of providing counsel on strategic investments and transactions.
"Robert has a strong understanding of the market."
"He's a great practitioner."
David Sherman is routinely engaged in fund formation, management and operation of private equity funds.
"David has a broad understanding of the sector and is a strong advisor."
Katrina Rowe has a burgeoning practice in this space. She has significant experience of providing counsel on the formation of a range of funds, including debt and infrastructure funds.